How to Turn Off Proxy: Easy Guide


how to turn off proxy

Using a proxy server can sometimes slow down your connection or block access to certain websites.

If you no longer need it, here’s a step-by-step guide that shows you how to turn off proxy settings across devices and browsers.

Before You Start

  • Make sure you have administrator rights on your device.
  • Check if your workplace or school requires a proxy before disabling it.
  • Note your current settings in case you want to restore them later. You can also check proxy settings first to confirm they’re enabled.

1. Turn Off Proxy on Windows

  1. Open the Start menu and select Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet and click Proxy.
  3. Under Manual Proxy Setup, toggle Use a proxy server to Off.
  4. Scroll up and make sure Automatically detect settings is On. If you need adjustments instead of disabling, you can also change proxy settings.
  5. Close the window. Changes are applied instantly.

2. Disable Proxy on macOS

  1. Click the Apple menu and go to System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
  2. Select Network and choose your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
  3. Click Details (or Advanced) and open the Proxies tab.
  4. Uncheck all proxy protocols such as Web Proxy (HTTP) and Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS).
  5. Click OK and then Apply to save.

3. Remove Proxy in Google Chrome

  1. Open Chrome and click the three-dot menu in the top right.
  2. Go to Settings > System.
  3. Select Open your computer’s proxy settings.
  4. This will take you to your OS proxy menu. Follow the steps above for Windows or Mac.

4. Disable Proxy in Firefox

  1. Click the menu button and choose Settings.
  2. Scroll down to Network Settings and click Settings….
  3. Select No proxy.
  4. Click OK to confirm.

5. Turn Off Proxy on iPhone/iPad

  1. Open the Settings app and tap Wi-Fi.
  2. Tap the i icon next to your active network.
  3. Scroll down to HTTP Proxy and select Off.

6. Turn Off Proxy on Android

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
  2. Tap Wi-Fi and select your active network.
  3. Tap Advanced > Proxy.
  4. Set it to None and save changes.

Comparison Table: How Proxy Is Disabled Across Platforms

PlatformStepsWhere to Find Proxy Settings
Windows5 stepsSettings > Network & Internet > Proxy
macOS5 stepsSystem Settings > Network > Proxies
Chrome3 stepsSettings > System > Proxy
Firefox4 stepsSettings > Network Settings
iOS3 stepsSettings > Wi-Fi > HTTP Proxy
Android4 stepsSettings > Wi-Fi > Advanced > Proxy

Tips for a Smooth Experience

  • If websites still won’t load, clear your browser cache after disabling the proxy.
  • On corporate networks, proxies may be mandatory. Check with IT before changing settings.
  • Some proxies can be tricky to disable if they are enforced by apps or policies. In that case, you may encounter a proxy not controllable error.
  • If your network blocks certain sites even after disabling, you might run into proxy sites blocked issues.
  • On school Wi-Fi where system changes are restricted, use an unblocked school proxy for quick, browser-only access (if allowed by policy).

FAQs

Why would I want to turn off proxy?

Disabling a proxy helps when websites are blocked, speeds are slow, or apps fail to connect properly. If you’re unsure whether the issue is proxy or firewall related, you can check proxy and firewall settings.

Is turning off proxy safe?

Yes, but keep in mind that a proxy may add a layer of filtering or privacy. If required by your network admin, leave it enabled.

How do I know if a proxy is active?

You can check in your device’s network settings. If proxy fields are filled in or toggled on, a proxy is active. If not, you may get errors like proxy not found.

Conclusion

Now you know how to turn off proxy settings on Windows, Mac, browsers, and mobile devices. Whether you’re fixing connection issues or just prefer a direct connection, these steps ensure your internet traffic flows without restrictions.

For more detailed troubleshooting, you may also like our guides on fixing proxy issues with images or what to do when a proxy stops working.

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